You might think you are ready to get a dog, but sometimes it can be difficult to convince your parents to accept. To achieve this, you can start by pointing out the benefits of having one, such as companionship and love. Then show that you are mature and responsible by doing extra housework. Show them that you are ready to have a dog by reflecting on what you will need to do to take care of it.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Bring up the idea of getting a new pet
Step 1. Mention the dog as a “family” pet
Tell your parents that if they have a dog, you will spend more time at home and therefore will spend more time with them. Tell them that having a dog can be fun for the whole family, as they can go for a walk together in the park or have a family barbecue in the backyard while they play with the dog by throwing a Frisbee at it.
Ask them to imagine how great it would be to have a family dinner with the dog by their side or to spend an evening watching movies with the dog lying at their feet
Step 2. Tell them that having a dog will make you spend more time outdoors
Are your parents tired of all the time you spend alone in your dark room, looking at your computer, or playing video games? Are they always telling you to go out and enjoy the sun? If so, tell them that if you have a dog, you will spend more time in the park enjoying the sun and exercising, rather than texting your friends or eating junk food.
Tell them that having a dog will help you get off the computer and have an easier adolescence or childhood with your furry friend
Step 3. Show them that having a dog can improve your mental health
Owning a dog is therapeutic, and dog owners have been shown to live longer and happier. A dog will know if you are feeling sad and can comfort you in times of stress. Dogs are intuitive animals that know exactly how to encourage their owners. If your parents spend a lot of time at work, tell them that having a dog around the house will not only be relaxing for everyone, but it will also keep you company when they are away.
Step 4. Tell them that a dog can make your home feel safer
Dogs are protective of their pack and will do everything possible to ensure the safety of those they consider to be their family. You will feel safer if there is a dog in the house. If you give him careful training, he can learn who is welcome at home and who is not.
Homes with a visible dog inside are much less likely to be burglarized. Show your parents that once you train a dog, it will not only be your companion for life, it will also be your protector. If you are old enough that your parents can go on vacation without you, tell them that you will feel much safer if you have a dog with you
Step 5. Explain that having a dog will teach you responsibility
You must show them that you are capable of having a dog by being responsible, but you can also tell them that this pet will make you an even more responsible and caring person. These are the reasons:
- Having a dog will teach you to follow a routine. You will have to feed it, walk it and play with it at certain times.
- If you have a dog, this will make you sleep and wake up earlier so you can walk him. You won't stay up until 3 a.m. in front of your computer or television.
- If you have a dog, this will teach you the value of taking responsibility for another living being.
Step 6. Talk about the type of dog you want
Do some research to determine the type of dog you want and why. You may want a small breed dog (like a miniature schnauzer) or a large dog (like a Labrador); In either case, explain why you want a certain breed. This will show your parents that you have put in the time and effort to think about the option of getting a dog. When talking to your parents about the type of dog you want, you may also need to do the following:
- Talk to them about the strengths and traits of a certain race. Is it characterized by being easy to train, very loyal or cute?
- Explain what is the most effective to train this breed. Show them that you already know what to do to teach him to go to the bathroom in the designated area and teach him basic commands like "sit" and "stay."
- Show them a photo of the dog or one of its breed. Showing them a photo can help them empathize much more. Who can resist the photo of a cute dog?
Method 2 of 3: Show Your Parents You Are Responsible
Step 1. Make sure you are ready to have a dog
It's so easy to love the idea of having a dog, especially after watching a great dog movie. However, this actually requires a lot of work. Although the idea of owning a dog may be to your liking, are you really ready to put in the time, expense, and effort it takes? Will you be willing to give part of your time to socialize and dedicate it to your dog?
Step 2. Determine a way to help with costs
Dogs can be expensive, due to cats in food, grooming, veterinary care, and toys. Determine a way that you can help with these expenses. Then offer to pay all or part of the dog's expenses. You will have to keep this promise, so you will need to ensure that the ideas for making money are realistic.
You can offer to do small jobs around the neighborhood, deliver newspapers, or use your savings or birthday money to help with the cost of the dog
Step 3. Do your share of the housework
If you want your parents to notice that you would be a great owner for your dog, you will need to be able to do the basics, like making your bed, keeping your room clean, doing the dishes, and doing whatever is expected of you. Then take it to the next level and take on more housework, help cook dinner, mow the lawn, or do laundry. You can even make coffee for your parents (if they seem to need caffeine) or do something to go above and beyond what is expected of you.
Step 4. Keep grades up
If you want your parents to consider that you can handle the added responsibility of having a dog, you will need to maintain high marks as you continue to ask them to allow you to have this new member in the family. If possible, try to do even better in school to show that you are committed to trying hard and doing what it takes to get a dog.
If you choose to make a promise to your parents, be as specific as possible. You could say something like "I will keep high marks in math" or "I will get high marks on all my science tests."
Step 5. Show them that you can take care of an object or an animal
Have your parents assign you to care for an object or animal for a specified time. It can be an egg (don't let it break!), A sack of flour, a plant, or even a hamster. If you do it right, this could show them that you are responsible and really want a dog. This may sound silly to you, but you should consider the situation as seriously as possible.
Step 6. Take a test
If you have a friend or family member who needs someone to take care of their dog for a while, volunteer. Taking good care of a dog for a few days will show your parents that you are ready for a pet and will show them how happy you are to spend time with this furry animal.
Step 7. Give them time to think about it
Remember that you should not ask them over and over again every day; otherwise they will shut you up. If they refuse, continue to show maturity and understanding, continue to help around the house, and mention the dog from time to time; this way you will get them used to the idea. Being patient will also show them that you are so committed as to be willing to wait.
Method 3 of 3: Address Your Concerns
Step 1. Show them that you will walk the dog
Your parents might be worried that you will get it, get bored, and force them to take care of it. Tell them that you have already chosen the best times to walk it and you are determined to do it every day. If you have a sibling, show your parents that they have divided the task of walking the animal. To prove your point, you can even go for a walk at the hours allotted to walk it.
Step 2. Assure them that the dog will not destroy their home
Maybe your parents are worried that it will chew on all their furniture and cables, make a mess in the house, and leave hair everywhere. Your job will be to show them that none of this will happen. When talking to your parents about their concerns, you should do the following:
- Tell them that you will give the dog plenty of chew toys to ensure it doesn't chew on the furniture. When it comes to loose wires, tell them you'll be taping or covering them, which will make your house look neater.
- Explain how you will prevent the dog from bringing dirt into the house. You can explain to them that you will clean the animal's legs in the garage or back entrance before it goes back into the house.
- Talk about how you will prevent the dog from leaving too much hair in the house. Dogs shed their hair, but you can explain to your parents that you will develop a cleaning schedule to remove it.
- Tell them that you plan to give the dog a weekly bath or bathe as often as necessary for their breed.
Step 3. Create a food and water chart
Your new dog will need to eat at least once (but usually twice) a day. Do some research to determine if you should give him wet food, dry food, or a combination dog food. Find a nutritious meal that is also suitable for your budget. Then make a chart showing the times of meals and their portions. You can also calculate the cost of the food over time.
Step 4. Reflect on your potty training
If you are planning to adopt an older dog, he may already be able to relieve himself in the designated spot. However, you may need to train a puppy or young dog to improve his potty skills. You should prepare to talk with your parents and tell them that, in addition to collecting the animal's feces, you will also clean the house and place mats for dog urine.
Step 5. Provide them with a list of recommended vets
Show them that you will be able to provide medical care for your dog. Do your research beforehand and look for the best vets in the area. Ask your friends who have dogs to recommend veterinarians, or do your own research. Find a vet close to your home so you can walk to his office if you don't have a driver's license. This will also show your parents that you have already found out and will be able to take care of the animal.
Step 6. Make a plan for vacations and other long walks
Show them that you have a plan to keep an eye on the dog if the family goes on vacation. Your mom might ask you "What would we do if we go to the beach for a week?" Don't let them catch you off guard and do your research ahead of time. Find a dog daycare where you can leave yours, or find a close friend or neighbor who is willing to take care of your pet.
Step 7. You should be willing to wait to adopt one
Show your parents that you won't be bored with the dog. They may worry that you will stop caring for him after a few weeks. You can calm these concerns by telling them that you are willing to wait a few months and continue talking about the dog. In this way, you will show them that it is not something temporary, but that you are very committed to the idea of having a dog and are willing to wait to show them how dedicated you are.
Advice
- Consider adopting a dog from a nearby shelter or rescue center. This is generally less expensive than buying a puppy from a cattery or pet store, and you will be helping a dog in need of a good home.
- You can get a little information about dog training in your area. Your parents will appreciate that you not only want a dog, but that you also want him to behave well.
- While you wait for your parents' permission, find out the location of animal shelters in your neighborhood and volunteer there to take care of some homeless dogs, or find some neighbors who need their help.
- Research animal shelters and accept your parents' opinion if they want a different breed or shelter dog.
Warnings
- You must be willing to take the care and responsibility necessary to be a good dog owner.
- If either of your parents is allergic to dogs or dog dander, you will need to take their concerns seriously. Look for one that is hypoallergenic, and be aware that you may have to pay more for a purebred one.